Type: Truck, Amphibious, 2 1/2 Ton, 6x6 Government Number: G-501 Model: DUKW 353 "Duck", M2A1 105mm M2A1 Howitzer Version Manufacturer: General Motors Company Date of Delivery: March 1945 Serial Number: 19754 Registration Number: 7034045* Maintenance Manual: TM 9-802 |
The D.U.K.W. (D = 1942, U = utility/amphibious, K = all wheel drive, W = two powered rear axles) was produced from 1942 through 1945. This DUKW 19754 "Duck", shown above, was produced in March 1945. The wartime service history is currently unknown. The DUKW was used in all campaigns during WWII, from North Africa to Italy and Central Europe to the Pacific Campaign. This specific DUKW was produced to carry the U.S. M2A1 105mm Howitzer. The cargo bed was extended slightly on the sides, just behind the driver, so the M2A1 Gun wheels would fit for transport and deployment. The 105mm Howitzer could not be fired from the DUKW during transport. A special crane was fitted to the rear of the DUKW for hoisting the M2A1 when the vehicle arrived ashore. After World War Two this "Duck" was used by a commercial company for touring in New York State until 2002. This "Duck" is currently unrestored with many incorrect details such as the windshield and extended top bows. Note * Registration Number 7034045 is an estimate based off of original registration numbers obtained from DUKW Serial Number 19769 (7034060), 19809 (7034100-S), 19818 (7034109) and 19847 (7034138). |
WWII DUKW Anchor, above photo. This DUKW anchor was purchased for the restoration of this 1945 GMC DUKW. It is marked: PATENT NO. 2249548 2320966 on one side of the anchor and R.S. DANFORTH BERKELEY CAL. MARK II AR.SS. B5 75 LBS. The small ball shapes have been cut from the sides of the anchor bottom. |
WWII DUKW Headlights, above two photos. These DUKW headlights were purchased for the restoration of this 1945 GMC DUKW. They were produced by GUIDE. |
WWII DUKW Headlight Guards, above left photo and Tail Light Guards, above right photo. These DUKW headlight and tail light guards were purchased for the restoration of this 1945 GMC DUKW. |
WWII DUKW Windshield, above photo. This DUKW windshield was purchased for the restoration of this 1945 GMC DUKW. |
WWII DUKW Gar Wood Winch, above two photos. This DUKW Gar Wood Winch was purchased for the restoration of this 1945 GMC DUKW. The winch was produced by Gar Wood, Detroit Michigan, Model B 2U512, Serial Number A 236099. |